Synthesis of Anti-Leukemia Compounds from South Pacific Sponge

Sat, 04/18/2009 - 10:34 — bioquicknews

Scientists at the Scripps Research Institute have succeeded in synthesizing kapakahines, compounds with anti-leukemia potential that are normally produced in vanishingly small quantities by the South Pacific tube-type sponge Cripbrochalina olemda. With the synthetic process in hand, it will be possible, for the first time, to produce kapakahines in quantities sufficient for thorough study of their effectiveness in combating leukemia. [Press release] [JACS abstract]